Three-star offensive tackle Daniel Akinkunmi, hailing from London, England, and representing the NFL Academy, has made a significant commitment to the University of Oklahoma.
Who is Daniel Akinkunmi?
Akinkunmi, standing at an impressive 6-foot-5 and weighing 300 pounds, opted to join the Sooners, choosing them over competing offers from Clemson and Baylor.
Akinkunmi’s decision to commit to Oklahoma was influenced by various factors, particularly a notable game against Arkansas State that showcased the team’s remarkable improvement and dedication. He expressed his desire to be part of a program with a strong winning culture, and he found that at OU. Additionally, the story of Coach V, Brent Venables, and his impactful coaching history deeply resonated with Akinkunmi. Their conversation felt authentic and personal, which made a lasting impression on the young athlete.
The relationship Akinkunmi has built with the coaching staff, particularly Coach Venables and Coach B, played a pivotal role in his decision. He described his connection with them as akin to talking to his brother. Coach Venables’ energy and dedication left a significant impact, while Coach B’s wealth of experience and passion for the game resonated with him. Akinkunmi anticipates the opportunity to play as a left or right tackle in his first year, further solidifying his decision.
In joining the University of Oklahoma, Akinkunmi becomes part of Coach Brent Venables’ impressive recruiting class for 2024. He is accompanied by other standout prospects, including five-star defensive lineman David Stone and four-star running back Taylor Tatum, among others.
On the national stage, Akinkunmi ranks as the No. 659 player in the On3 Industry Ranking, which is a composite ranking based on the assessments of major recruiting media companies. His position as the No. 42 offensive tackle signifies his prowess in his chosen position.
While his athletic abilities have garnered attention and earned him a spot with the Sooners, his On3 NIL Valuation is not publicly listed at this time. The On3 NIL Valuation serves as an index that estimates the projected annual value (PAV) of high school and college athletes but does not track the actual value of NIL deals completed by the athlete. It provides a snapshot of an athlete’s value at a specific moment in time.